It has been a month since the passing of Racheal’s mother. Instead of the usual funeral services, her family held a party in her honor. There was, of course, some tears but overall it was simply a celebration of her and the memories we hold close to us.

Family and friends gathered to share stories, memories, and adorations for this wonderful woman. I stood to speak, and this is what I shared:

There is a camera behind the mind’s eye, capturing our memories and holding them for review. These fleeting moments along the journey of life happen so fast that we barely recognize them when they happen.

*click* It’s your first day of school. You are wearing fresh-pressed clothes, surrounded by classmates.
*click* You are knee deep in mud and sand, wearing a smile as bright as the summer sun upon the beach.
*click* You stand before family and friends saying your vows.
*click* From the comfort of your chair you watch as the grandkids gather beneath the tree.

We stand here surrounded by such moments. The pictures of a life filled with laughter and happiness; of left turns and moments of serenity. Reflection, hope, and, sometimes, missed opportunities.
If there is one theme that repeats in so many of these pictures it is that we must drink, laugh, and be merry; to enjoy each and every moment- for we never know when the camera will capture no more of life’s moments.
Each of us has a special and unique photo album in our hearts and minds with a simple title, written in cursive and love. Its title is special to each of us, as well- “Irene/Vicky/mom/aunt- and Me”.
From time to time we will flip through its pages and remember the moments that made our relationship with her special. In those moments she will be with us to laugh and say, “Yes, I remember that one.”
Today is just one more moment to add to that album, so smile and say, “buzzard!”

Irene Victoria Burnia (1946-2016)